defeat

Head coach Kenny Payne acknowledged some positive aspects of the game, stating, “I thought there were segments of the game where we showed our growth. We showed that we can play with a team like Duke.” However, he highlighted two key issues that stood out: the Cardinals allowed 16 second-chance points in the second half and made poor decisions regarding time and score. Payne emphasized the need for the team to stay focused and not shoot themselves in the foot, especially when facing a top-ranked opponent like Duke.

UofL head coach Kenny Payne praised NC State’s performance, acknowledging that he anticipated a tough game against a formidable opponent. He highlighted the importance of defense, emphasizing that failure to defend effectively ultimately led to their defeat. Despite solid offensive statistics, shooting 47% from the field, 53% from beyond the arc, and 76% from the free-throw line, the Cardinals couldn’t overcome their defensive shortcomings.

Brohm acknowledged that his team had some chances in the second half to convert plays and get back in the game, but they were unable to make it work. He also mentioned that all three segments of the team – defense, offense, and special teams – were beaten by USC, and that is ultimately why they lost.

Louisville finished their season with an overall record of 27-5, hitting .213 with five aces and 13 blocks in the loss. Middle blocker Phekran Kong had an outstanding performance, tying her career-high with 13 kills while hitting .600 and contributing eight blocks. Outside hitter Anna DeBeer also had an impressive game, tallying 13 kills, eight digs, and three blocks. Middle blocker Cara Cresse recorded nine kills, five blocks, and an ace, and Aiko Jones added nine kills, six blocks, and five digs in her final match as a Cardinal. Setter Elle Glock had 39 assists, four digs, and a block, while libero Elena Scott totaled 10 digs, four assists, and three aces.

The Cats got off to a promising start, with Russell scoring the first basket of the game, giving them a 4-3 lead. However, Minnesota quickly turned the tide, going on a seven-point run to take a 10-4 advantage. Kentucky fought back, scoring the next seven points and exchanging the lead four more times before ending the period with a slim 17-16 lead, thanks to a pair of free throws from Russell.

Saniah Tyler and Eniya Russell also contributed to the Cats’ efforts with 11 points apiece. However, Kentucky was missing their star guard Maddie Scherr due to an ankle injury, which surely impacted their performance on the court.

The Thundering Herd sought redemption after losing to the Wildcats just 17 days prior. With a spot in the championship at stake, both teams battled fiercely in the first half, but neither could break the scoreless deadlock. However, four minutes into the second half, Marshall’s Alvaro Garcia-Pascual changed the momentum in their favor. The junior forward stole the ball, made a brilliant run past two Wildcat defenders, and scored a clinical finish into the bottom right corner of the net.

Clemson got off to a quick start, scoring the opening goal in just the seventh minute. However, Louisville quickly responded 12 minutes later. David Boccuzzo created a turnover in the attacking third, and Parker Forbes’ cross connected with Gage Guerra’s head, finding the back of the net for an equalizer.